The move into e-commerce by Applied Automation (UK) Ltd has been welcomed with open arms by Omron Electronics and SMC Pneumatics, who see the move as adding a new dimension to their customer service, component sales and product support. This new division of Applied Automation, known as "x-stk", enables the customer to access over 2,000 products online - all of which available for next day delivery.
At the launch of the www.x-stk.co.uk site were the three people behind the venture: Steve Bangs (MD of SMC Pneumatics (UK) Ltd), Marco Calandra (MD of Omron Electronics Ltd) and David Rowe (MD from Applied Automation (UK) Ltd).
Steve Bangs stressed the importance of the internet to aid product sourcing and supply and to ensure that "core products were available with easy access from the web". Going on to discuss the SMC business strategy he commented: "Today 30% of the SMC business is through the distribution sales channel, and it is our plan to increase this figure to 50% by 2009". With ventures such as x-stk, allowing quick, simple and helpful product selection for the key pneumatic components, these goals can easily be met.
Marco Calandra opened by saying: "UK manufacturing faced challenging times and those who were able to offer value added services are sure to succeed. Customers were becoming more discerning about their suppliers, and look for those who can really make a difference to the competitive advantage of their own businesses". Omron believes that to exploit such potential, the supplier has to be focused on what the customer needs. Applied Automation can achieve this with the launch of it's x-stk e-commerce business.
David Rowe, mastermind behind the x-stk business, openly discussed the thought process behind the venture and went on to explain the benefits of x-stk in more detail and plans for it's development over the coming period.
"The products selected for the site represent the core products used every day in industry, from sensors to cylinders and push buttons to PLCs. Each product chosen for the site has a simple look up, product search feature and detailed product specification".
A key benefit of www.x-stk.co.uk is the ease of use and the way in which the site pre-empts the selection process by suggesting various accessories to the components the user is placing in the sales basket. For example, if a customer chooses an M12 inductive proximity switch, the system will prompt him or her to add a connecting cable or a sensor tester.
With x-stk V2.0 already in the planning stages the commitment from all involved is high and they welcome you to try the new supply service with a difference.